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Best Hair Styling Guide for Thick Hair: Pro Stylist Secrets! (2024)

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best hair styling guide for thick hairTaming thick hair isn’t rocket science—it’s all about smart styling.

Layered cuts are your secret weapon, removing excess weight while creating killer movement and dimension. Rock A-line or shag styles that redistribute bulk and frame your face like a pro.

When blow-drying, use a diffuser on low heat and cup sections gently for maximum volume.

Lightweight products are your best friend—they’ll enhance texture without weighing you down. Heat protection is non-negotiable when curling or flat-ironing, so don’t skip that essential step.

Your thick locks have serious potential, and with the right techniques, you’ll turn heads everywhere you go.

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Layered cuts strategically remove weight, creating incredible movement in your thick hair, transforming bulky locks into dynamic, face-framing styles that showcase your natural texture.
  • Don’t fear your volume—master blow-drying and styling techniques using lightweight products, heat protection, and tools like diffusers that will help you control and enhance your thick hair’s natural potential.
  • Your styling arsenal should include smart product choices: sulfate-free shampoos, moisturizing conditioners, and texturizing sprays that will keep your thick hair looking fresh, preventing buildup while maintaining healthy, vibrant locks.
  • Regular trims are your secret weapon—aim for every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends, maintain your hair’s shape, and ensure your thick hair remains manageable, healthy, and stunning without feeling overwhelming.

Choosing The Right Haircut

Choosing The Right Haircut
Thick hair can be your crowning glory or your worst styling nightmare, depending on the haircut you choose.

Let’s find the perfect cut that’ll make your locks look amazing and feel lighter, giving you the confidence to rock any style with ease.

Layered Styles for Thick Hair

Tired of your thick hair feeling like a heavy mane? Layered styling tips can be your secret weapon!

Layered styles for thick hair are game-changers that transform your look from bulky to brilliant.

  • Remove excess weight strategically
  • Create movement and bounce
  • Frame your face effortlessly
  • Add dimension without sacrificing length
  • Enhance natural hair texture

Lightweight, dynamic layers are your ticket to hair freedom.

A-Line and Shag Cuts for Versatility

Building on long layers, A-line and shag cuts open up a world of versatility for thick hair. These dynamic styles reshape your look with strategic weight removal and movement.

Want to rock a cut that screams confidence? Consider the A-Line Cut or the Shag Cut.

A-Line Cut Shag Cut
Sharp angles Textured layers
Slimming effect Wild, carefree

Your face shape gets instant drama with these game-changing haircuts that add personality and bounce.

Textured and Layered Lob Variations

Every lob hairstyle is a chance to transform your thick locks into a head-turning masterpiece.

Textured layers are your secret weapon for creating dimension and movement.

Consider these lob styling tips:

  1. Choose choppy layers to break up bulk
  2. Opt for balayage highlights for added depth
  3. Use lightweight products to enhance natural texture

Rock your layered lob with confidence and sass!

Bangs and Face-Framing Techniques

From textured lobs to face-framing magic, bangs are your secret weapon for taming thick hair.

Whether you’re rocking curtain, side-swept, or blunt fringe, the right bang type can transform your look.

Match your bang style to your face shape for maximum impact.

Pro tip: Thinner sections work wonders for thick hair, creating dimension and softening your overall style.

Styling Thick Hair at Home

Got a head full of thick, fabulous hair that feels like a wild beast?

You’re in luck – with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you’ll transform that volume from overwhelming to absolutely stunning.

Diffusing and Blow-Drying Techniques

Diffusing and Blow-Drying Techniques
After choosing your perfect cut, master your blow-dry game with a diffuser.

This hair hero helps minimize frizz and adds root lift for thick hair styles.

Attach the diffuser, apply heat protectant, and dry on low heat.

Cup sections gently, moving upward to create volume without disrupting your hair’s natural texture. Pro tip: patience is your styling ally.

Curling and Flat Ironing for Waves and Curls

Curling and Flat Ironing for Waves and Curls
When you’re ready to transform those thick locks into waves or curls, choose your heat protectants wisely.

Different iron types work magic on various curl types and wave patterns.

Experiment with styling techniques that match your thick hair’s unique texture. Keep styling time short to prevent damage, and watch your hair come alive with stunning, bouncy definition. thick hair

Managing Volume With Flat and Round Brushes

Managing Volume With Flat and Round Brushes
Got those curls under control? Now, master volume with the right brush moves.

Flat brushes are your secret weapon for smoothing and root lift, while round brushes create killer bounce.

Different brush techniques can transform thick hair from flat to fabulous in minutes.

Pro tip: start at the roots, use heat protection, and work your way down.

Essential Products for Thick Hair

Essential Products for Thick Hair
After mastering blow-drying techniques, you’ll want the right arsenal of hair products to keep your thick locks looking fabulous.

Top-tier shampoos like L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths are your secret weapon against frizz and buildup.

Grab a hydrating hair mask to give your strands some serious TLC – think of it as a spa day for your hair.

Styling serums are game-changers for thick hair, helping you tame wild textures and add shine. Volumizing mousses work magic for creating body without weighing hair down.

Pro tip: Look for products specifically designed for thick hair textures. Lightweight formulas with moisturizing ingredients will be your best friends, helping you rock those gorgeous locks with confidence and style.

Expert Hair Care Advice

Expert Hair Care Advice
Discover the secrets of killer thick hair styling. Top celebrity hairstylists are about to spill their pro techniques that’ll transform your locks from blah to brilliant.

Jasmine Burnside’s Editorial and Wedding Hair Tips

Mastering editorial styling for thick hair, Jasmine Burnside champions creative wedding updos.

She transforms texture challenges into stunning bridal looks.

Her expertise shines in strategic hair accessory placement, turning voluminous locks into elegant masterpieces.

She understands that thick hair isn’t a limitation but a canvas for breathtaking hairstyles, empowering brides to rock their natural texture with confidence and glamour.

Trace Henningsen’s Celebrity Wedding Hair Advice

Building on Burnside’s editorial insights, Trace Henningsen brings star-powered wisdom to wedding hair.

As a Leonor Greyl ambassador, he knows thick hair demands special attention for bridal looks. His pro tip? Choose updos that showcase your hair’s natural volume while keeping accessories light.

Veil placement and pre-wedding prep can transform your bridal style from basic to breathtaking.

To achieve these stunning looks, explore the right products for Leonor Greyl thick hair.

Priscilla Valles’s Hair Extension Expertise

With 23 years of A-list extension expertise, Priscilla Valles knows thick hair extensions aren’t just about length—they’re about transforming your look.

Her celebrity clientele swears by strategic extension types that add volume and drama without overwhelming your natural hair.

For those with fine locks, understanding the best hair extensions for thin hair can make all the difference.

Want those red carpet-worthy locks? She’ll teach you maintenance tips that keep extensions looking flawless and feeling lightweight.

Building a Hair Care Routine

Building a Hair Care Routine
If you’ve got thick hair, you know it can be both a blessing and a styling challenge.

Your perfect hair care routine is all about understanding your locks.

Using the right products is also key.

Mastering techniques that’ll keep your mane looking fabulous and feeling healthy is essential.

Shampooing and Conditioning for Thick Hair

After hearing from top stylists, it’s time to master your thick hair cleansing game.

Your hair’s density demands smart washing strategies.

Pay attention to how often you shampoo – too much strips natural oils, while too little leads to product buildup.

Listen to your scalp and hair’s signals.

Rinse thoroughly with cool water to seal cuticles and boost shine.

Using Cleansing Shampoos and Moisturizing Conditioners

Your hair care game just leveled up with the right cleansing shampoos and moisturizing conditioners. Thick hair demands smart product choices that keep things fresh and fabulous.

  • Grab sulfate-free shampoos to prevent product buildup
  • Choose hydrating conditioners targeting your specific hair texture
  • Opt for deep conditioning treatments monthly

Keep your locks singing, not crying!

Regular Trims for Maintaining Healthy Hair

Regular trims are your secret weapon against split ends and unruly thick hair. They’re not just a quick fix—they’re a game-changer for maintaining healthy growth and styling ease.

Using high-quality best hair shears can also make a big difference in the overall health and appearance of your hair.

Aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep your locks looking fresh, preventing breakage and maintaining your hair’s natural thickness and health.

Protective Styles and Updos for Thick Hair

Protective Styles and Updos for Thick Hair
Got tired of your thick hair falling flat or feeling too heavy?

Let’s explore some game-changing protective styles and updos.

That’ll keep your locks looking fabulous and feeling light, giving you the confidence to rock any hairstyle with ease.

Bob Box Braids and Half-Up Top Knots

When the summer heat hits, bob box braids and half-up top knots become your thick hair’s best friends. These protective styles aren’t just about looking cool – they’re your secret weapon for managing volume and style.

  • Versatile braiding techniques that tame unruly locks
  • Lightweight hair accessories that add instant glamour
  • Updo variations that keep you looking fresh all day

Half-Up Cornrows and Overgrown Pixie Cuts

After rocking those bob box braids, you’ll love cornrow variations that keep thick hair in check.

Half-up cornrows give you a playful, protective style that screams confidence.

If you’re craving something shorter, an overgrown pixie cut offers low-maintenance liberation.

These thick hair styles blend practicality with attitude, letting your personality shine while keeping those locks under control.

Long Bobs With Layered Styling Options

By the skin of your teeth, a long bob (lob) offers thick-haired beauties the ultimate protective style with endless versatility.

A well-executed layered cut can also help distribute weight evenly, preventing breakage and promoting healthy hair growth, especially for hair densities that conceal the scalp, like thick hair types.

Layered styling options can transform your look from zero to hero:

  1. Create soft, face-framing pieces that dance around your cheekbones
  2. Experiment with subtle highlights for dimension
  3. Use texturizing products for effortless movement
  4. Rock a low-maintenance, high-impact hairstyle that screams confidence.

Short to Medium Hairstyles for Thick Hair

Got thick hair and craving a fresh, manageable look?

Whether you’re eyeing a chic rounded bob, a trendy undercut, or a face-framing feathered style,

we’ve got the perfect short to medium hairstyles that’ll make your thick locks work for you, not against you.

Rounded Bobs With Side Bangs and Yarn Braids

Rounded Bobs With Side Bangs and Yarn Braids
Looking to rock a style that screams confidence? Rounded bobs with side bangs are your secret weapon for taming thick hair.

Pair them with trendy yarn braids for a look that’s both practical and stunning.

These hairstyles work magic by redistributing weight and framing your face, giving you that effortless "I woke up like this" vibe while keeping your thick hair in check.

To achieve the best results with yarn braids, mastering basic braiding techniques for different hair types is key to a stunning and long-lasting look.

Undercuts and Angled Medium Hairstyles

Undercuts and Angled Medium Hairstyles
Craving a style that slays volume and cuts through complexity? Undercuts and angled medium hairstyles are your thick hair’s secret weapon. These trendy cuts work magic for managing weight and creating killer looks.

For the best results, consider using thick hair products.

  • Reduce bulk with strategic undercutting
  • Frame your face with precision angles
  • Control volume without sacrificing length
  • Customize your cut to match your unique personality

Grab those scissors and reshape your hair game!

Feathered Bobs and Elegant Face-Framing Styles

Feathered Bobs and Elegant Face-Framing Styles
Want to rock a feathered bob that turns heads?

After playing with undercuts, you’ll love how a feathered bob can transform thick hair.

These face-framing styles work magic for different face shapes, creating soft, elegant movement.

Grab some texturizing products and a round brush to add volume and dimension. Pro tip: Ask your stylist to use thinning shears for that perfect, lightweight finish.

Long Hairstyles for Thick Hair

Long Hairstyles for Thick Hair
If you’re rocking thick, luscious locks, long hairstyles can be your ultimate style playground.

From beachy waves with curtain bangs to textured layers that add dimension, you’ll discover countless ways to make your thick hair look absolutely stunning.

Long Layers and Double Fishtail Braids

If you’re ready to rock your thick locks, long layers are your secret weapon for killer hair. These layers add serious movement and dimension, turning heads wherever you go.

Check out these styling tips:

  1. Create soft, cascading layers that frame your face
  2. Use a texturizing spray for added volume and definition
  3. Master the double fishtail braid for an intricate, show-stopping look

Choppy Layers and Beachy Waves With Curtain Bangs

Building on long layers from before, choppy layers add a rocker-chic vibe to thick hair.

Grab your texturizing scissors and create piecey, lived-in texture that screams effortless cool.

Pair those layers with beachy waves and soft curtain bangs for a look that’s part California surfer, part runway model. Your thick hair just got a major style upgrade.

Textured Layers and Balayage Highlights

Almost every thick-haired beauty craves dimension without sacrificing volume, and balayage highlights are your secret weapon for transforming heavy locks into a masterpiece of movement and style.

For those with thick hair, regular trims can help maintain a well-groomed appearance and schedule regular hair trims.

  • Imagine soft, melted caramel tones dancing through your strands
  • Lighter pieces strategically placed to break up dense hair texture
  • Highlights that whisper, not scream, creating natural-looking depth
  • Seamless color blending that makes your layers pop
  • A professional touch that turns thick hair from bulky to breathtaking

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Thick Hair

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Thick Hair
If you’ve got thick hair, you’re probably familiar with the styling struggles that can leave you frustrated and your locks looking less than fabulous.

Don’t worry, though—we’ve got the inside scoop on the most common mistakes that can sabotage your hair game and how to dodge them like a pro.

Avoiding Excessive Heat Styling

After rocking those gorgeous long layers, protect your thick locks from heat damage.

Swap your flat iron for heatless styling tricks that’ll keep your hair healthy and happy.

Air drying and protective styles are your new best friends.

Regular trims can also help prevent split ends from forming, giving you killer thick hair without the heat-induced harm.

Getting Regular Trims to Prevent Split Ends

Your hair’s health highway depends on regular trims—think of them as maintenance checkups for your locks.

Split ends can’t survive strategic haircuts that snip away damage before it spreads.

Most thick-haired folks should book a trim every 6-8 weeks, targeting those pesky breakage points.

Pro tip: catch split ends early to keep your hair looking fresh, vibrant, and totally stunning.

Maintaining Healthy Thick Hair

Maintaining Healthy Thick Hair
Thick hair can be your crowning glory, but it takes some serious TLC to keep it looking fabulous.

With the right care routine, you’ll transform those luscious locks from high-maintenance to show-stopping.

Ensuring your hair stays healthy, vibrant, and totally Instagram-worthy.

Avoiding Product Buildup With

Tackle product buildup like a pro by rotating clarifying shampoos into your thick hair care routine.

Choose lightweight styling products that won’t overwhelm your locks, and opt for sea salt sprays and leave-in conditioners designed for residue removal.

Regular deep conditioning helps maintain scalp health while keeping your mane fresh and vibrant.

For detangling thick hair, using a brush with synthetic bristles, such as nylon bristle brushes, can be particularly effective.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best hair routine for thick hair?

Wash less frequently with a moisturizing shampoo, use a wide-tooth comb, and apply hydrating products.

Embrace layers to manage volume, diffuse hair for shine, and protect with leave-in conditioner.

Style with confidence!

What hairstyle is best for really thick hair?

You’ll love a layered lob that playfully thins out your thick locks.

Face-framing pieces create movement while an A-line cut removes bulk.

Giving you a stylish, manageable look that’ll turn heads without overwhelming your gorgeous mane.

Does thick hair look better, long or short?

Liberating your thick locks means embracing versatility!

Whether long or short, layered styles reign supreme.

Short cuts lighten the load, while long styles showcase dramatic movement.

Your confidence is the real game-changer, so rock what makes you feel fierce.

What to avoid with thick hair?

Dodge heavy-handed styling that weighs down your locks.

Skip tight ponytails that strain roots.

Steer clear of products causing buildup.

Avoid over-washing, which strips natural oils.

Embrace techniques that remove bulk and add movement to your thick mane. This will help you achieve a healthy look.

How do hormones affect thick hair thickness?

Hormonal shifts like pregnancy or menopause can dramatically alter your thick hair‘s texture and volume.

Estrogen increases hair fullness, while testosterone and thyroid changes might thin or thicken your locks unexpectedly.

Can diet influence my hairs volume?

Your friend Sarah noticed thicker hair after switching to a protein-rich diet.

You’ll boost hair volume by eating foods packed with biotin, protein, and vitamins.

eggs, spinach, and salmon, which nourish follicles and promote healthy hair growth.

Are there genetic factors determining hair texture?

Genes play a massive role in determining your hair’s texture.

Inherited traits from your parents dictate whether you’ll rock curly, straight, or wavy locks – it’s basically a genetic lottery you’ve got no control over.

How does stress impact thick hair growth?

Stress can wreak havoc on your hair, triggering massive shedding and slowing growth.

Cortisol spikes disrupt your hair’s natural cycle, causing breakage and potential thinning.

Managing stress through self-care might help keep those locks luscious.

What hair changes occur during pregnancy?

Pregnancy transforms your hair’s landscape, triggering hormonal rollercoasters that boost thickness and shine.

You’ll experience fuller locks during pregnancy.

Then, potential postpartum shedding as hormone levels normalize, revealing your hair’s natural rhythm.

Conclusion

Who knew taming thick hair could be your superpower?

You’ve got the ultimate best hair styling guide for thick hair in your arsenal now.

Armed with pro stylist secrets, you’ll transform those luscious locks from unruly to unstoppable.

Whether you’re rocking layered cuts, mastering blow-drying techniques, or choosing the right products, you’re now equipped to make your thick hair work for you—not against you.

Confidence? Totally guaranteed.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.